John's Coffeehouse

When the things we own begin to own us. "And Jesus, looking at him, loved him, and said to him, 'You lack one thing: go, sell all that you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me.'" - Mark 10:21, ESV "Then God said, 'Take your son, your only son, whom you love—Isaac—and go to the region of Moriah. Sacrifice him there as a burnt offering on a mountain I will show you.'" - Genesis 22:2, ESV We are surrounded, no, bombarded by messages - often specifically targeted to us - telling us that our happiness is just one purchase away: a newer car; a better smartphone; the latest apparel; the most recent top-of-the-line camera, or a more solid financial footing. And while there is nothing wrong with seeking out these things in our lives, the danger lies in wanting them to the exclusion of all else, including God. What happens when the things we've accumulated begin to occupy the place in our hearts that belong...